The green-crowned warbler is a species of leaf warbler. It was formerly included in the "Old World warbler" assemblage.
Region
Himalayas to northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Occupies subtropical and tropical moist broadleaf forests, forest edges, bamboo thickets, and shaded ravines. It is frequently associated with streamside vegetation and dense undergrowth where it gleans insects from leaves and twigs. Breeds in foothill and lower montane zones of the Himalayas and disperses to lower elevations and southeastward in the nonbreeding season. Readily uses secondary growth and disturbed forest as long as sufficient cover is present.
Altitude Range
500–2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The green-crowned warbler is a small leaf warbler that was formerly grouped within the broad 'Old World warbler' assemblage but is now placed in Phylloscopus. It shows a distinctive yellow 'spectacled' look and an olive-green crown that help separate it from similar leaf warblers. It often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging in forest understory and mid-story. Many populations make seasonal elevational movements following insect availability.
Temperament
active and restless
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during breeding; outside the breeding season it commonly joins mixed-species flocks. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation or on banks. Pairs are presumed monogamous, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A series of high, thin, sweet notes that accelerate into light trills. Calls are sharp, sibilant chips used frequently while foraging in cover.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with yellowish underparts, a green-toned crown, and a bright yellow eyering forming 'spectacles' linked to a strong supercilium. Fine darker eye-line and subtle pale fringes on the wings; overall soft, clean leaf-warbler texture.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods, including caterpillars and soft-bodied larvae. It gleans prey from leaves and twigs and may hover-glean at the edges of foliage. Occasional short sallies are used to snatch flushed insects. Foraging is quick and methodical through the understory and mid-story.
Preferred Environment
Forested understory, bamboo patches, and riparian thickets with ample leaf surface for gleaning. Also works along forest edges and in secondary growth where insect densities are high.
